Eco Tech: Vindicator laser system boosts wind turbine output

Virginia-based Catch the Wind has signed an agreement with National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) to test a laser wind sensor that automatically optimizes wind turbine direction to boost its output. Dubbed Vindicator, the system monitors wind speeds and direction and automatically adjusts the position of the turbine blades to reduce stress and generate more energy.

The system is based on the use of fiber optic lasers, the output of which is reported to the wind turbine’s control system, which then adjusts the position of the blades accordingly.